CHOC, the Childhood Cancer Foundation South Africa, is calling on the community to learn more about the signs of childhood cancer, as they commemorate Gold September this month.
The annual campaign aims to raise awareness of childhood cancer and the importance of early detection of cancer. In a statement, CHOC said early detection has been hampered as the Covid-19 pandemic puts extra stress on the healthcare system.
“The burden of the SARS-CoV-2 is further testing our fragile health care systems. Many caregivers are unemployed due to national lockdowns, there are inadequate transport systems, and caregivers are afraid to venture out of the safety of their homes to seek healthcare as the ever-present danger of contracting Covid-19 lurks. Sadly, we may experience even further delays in the diagnosis of childhood cancer,” read the statement.
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“We should endeavour to ensure children with cancer do not face further delays in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer during the global SARS-CoV-2 pandemic,” continued the statement.
CHOC said the Siluan Warning Signs for childhood cancer were adopted by the South African Children’s Cancer Study Group and the national Department of Health to promote the early detection.
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CHOC encourages the community to be a voice of hope this September and collaborate with health care workers, non-profit organisations, and the Department of Health to spread the Siluan Warning Signs for early cancer diagnosis.
For more information, visit: CHOC Patient Referral Pathways.
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